The Greek word apolýtrōsis, represented by G629, means redemption or deliverance. It is defined as a ransom in full or, figuratively, a riddance. It appears 10 times in 10 unique verses and refers specifically to Christian salvation.
In scripture, G629 is centrally linked to the work of Christ. It is through his blood that we have redemption, which is described as the forgiveness of sins (G266, G3900) (Ephesians 1:7, Colossians 1:14). This act is a result of God's grace G5485 Romans 3:24. The concept has both a present and future aspect; believers are sealed by the Holy Spirit for a future "day of redemption" Ephesians 4:30 and await the redemption of the body Romans 8:23. In some contexts, it is used more generally as deliverance Hebrews 11:35.
Several related words help clarify the full scope of G629:
- G859 áphesis (pardon): This word is frequently used alongside redemption to clarify its outcome. The redemption purchased by Christ's blood results in the forgiveness of sins (Ephesians 1:7, Colossians 1:14).
- G1343 dikaiosýnē (righteousness): In Christ, believers are given not only redemption but also wisdom, righteousness, and sanctification G38, presenting these as interconnected aspects of salvation 1 Corinthians 1:30.
- G5206 huiothesía (adoption): This concept is tied to the future hope of believers, who wait for their adoption, which is defined as the redemption of the body Romans 8:23.
- G728 arrhabṓn (a pledge, i.e. part of the purchase-money or property given in advance as security for the rest): The Holy Spirit is described as the earnest of our inheritance G2817 until the final redemption of the purchased possession G4047 Ephesians 1:14.
The theological weight of G629 is demonstrated in its various applications:
- A Ransom Paid: The core meaning revolves around a price being paid for freedom. Scripture states this price is the "blood" of Christ, securing redemption from sins G266 and transgressions G3847 (Ephesians 1:7, Hebrews 9:15).
- A Present Possession: Through Christ, believers currently "have redemption" (Ephesians 1:7, Colossians 1:14). It is a status granted freely by God's grace G5485 and is a key component of salvation alongside righteousness G1343 and sanctification G38 (Romans 3:24, 1 Corinthians 1:30).
- A Future Hope: The term also points to a final and complete deliverance. Believers are "sealed unto the day of redemption" Ephesians 4:30 and await the redemption of the body as the culmination of their adoption G5206 as sons Romans 8:23. This future redemption is a cause for hope as it "draweth nigh" Luke 21:28.
In summary, G629 signifies a comprehensive deliverance. It describes the past-tense reality of being ransomed from sin through Christ's sacrifice, the present possession of forgiveness, and the future hope of a complete and final liberation from all effects of the fall, culminating in the redemption of the body. It is a cornerstone concept for understanding the scope of Christian salvation.
TRV